For U.S. Senate, Scott Brown best NH candidate come November

Every New Hampshire voter knows how crucial is this November's U.S. Senate election. They have seen the amount of money being spent here to saturate the air waves. They know that the seat now held by Barack Obama's most loyal supporter, "99% Jeanne Shaheen,'' is likely to be key to either keeping the Senate in Democrat gridlock or opening it up to a much-needed new approach.

Republican primary voters, and independents, too, have the responsibility to choose the best possible candidate on Sept. 9. In our view, that candidate is clear: Scott Brown.

We don't agree with Brown on every issue. We know this because he is a refreshingly candid man who isn't afraid to tell you where he stands. Nor is he afraid to listen to and engage in reasonable, thoughtful discussion.

Brown's numerous open "town hall'' meetings are indicative of this. Unlike Shaheen, who runs from truly open forums, Brown has taken on questions from all comers, critics and hostile Democratic operatives alike.

We like Brown because of his blue-collar roots, his many years of service to his country with the National Guard, his work to put himself through law school and the fine family that he and his wife have raised. We also like him because of his common sense approach to issues.

Scott Brown will make a solid, smart, and independent voice for New Hampshire in the U.S. Senate.